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Lifestyle Communities

Featured USA Communities

Trilogy By Shea Homes

Over 1,500 people have made the move to Trilogy in the last year alone. Why do people love Trilogy® Active Lifestyle Communities so much?  There are thousands of reasons . . .

Trilogy® at the Polo Club by Shea Homes

Twenty minutes from the hot springs and old Hollywood glamour of Palm Desert enveloped by warm Coachella Valley breezes, Trilogy at the Polo Club is where resort seekers of all ages will find first-class luxury. This well appointed gated oasis flaunts impressive architectural details, one of a kind amenities and breathtaking views of the Santa Rosa Mountains.

Cresswind 55+ Communities by Kolter Homes

Start your new home search, get a FREE guide with tips on finding the right active adult community and schedule a tour.

Citrus Gardens

Citrus Gardens offers a wide array of new, pre-owned, and recently renovated manufactured homes for those looking to enjoy the beautiful Arizona sun. Nestled in a vibrant community, our homes provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Whether it be long-term or seasonal, these low-maintenance homes are perfect for all types of residents, including retirees, young families, and professionals seeking a tranquil living environment.

Rancho Ontario

The community features new or renovated manufactured homes designed for comfort and luxury. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities and the convenience of a manufactured home community. Southern California's beauty is right outside your door in this friendly community.

Fox Hills Condominiums

Within the community, winding walking trails, and sculpture adorned gardens create a peaceful atmosphere, while giving residents easy access to the surrounding area of Rockaway Township where they’ll enjoy shopping at Rockaway Townsquare, find fantastic dining options, and have some of the best medical facilities and outdoor recreation spots only a few minutes from home.

Featured Canada Communities

Arbutus Ridge, Cobble Hill BC

A Gated Seaside Community for Active Adults overlooking the Salish Sea on beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.  It is located between Victoria and Nanaimo in the rich temperate climate of the Cowichan Valley, surrounded by protected beaches, glorious views and generous sunshine. With the adjacent Championship 18-hole Arbutus Ridge golf course, 24 / 7 staffed security services, tennis courts, marine facility and RV storage; Arbutus Ridge is one of Canada’s best retirement communities for active adults.  

Ridgeway by the Lake, Ridgeway ON

Ridgeway by the Lake is one of the Niagara Region’s most beautiful new home communities. Designed specifically for discerning homebuyers who enjoy the finer things in life, the quality, value and luxury that’s inherent in each and every home presents a rare opportunity for substantial appreciation. Ownership at Ridgeway by the Lake is your entree to the 9,000 sq. ft. on-site Algonquin Clubhouse.

The Vintages at Four Mile Creek

Niagara-on-the-Lake is Ontario’s most sought after community and the village of St. Davids in Niagara-on-the-Lake is especially popular. But then, when one considers all the wonderful amenities offered here and the gracious, elegant lifestyles enjoyed by our residents, it’s a small wonder. Whether it’s theatre, fine dining, award-winning wines, fresh markets, golf or a myriad of other interests, all can be found within 15 minutes of your home.Close proximity to the QEW ensures that you’re only about an hour from the Greater Toronto Area. In that sense, St. Davids offers the best of all worlds

Latest Blog Articles

Rice Pudding with a Twist Recipe 

Easy Mother’s Day Potluck Recipe You Can Make In Advance  Holiday celebrations that honor residents are among the most popular ways to unite active adult communities. May is the spring month dedicated to the mothers of the world. Whether your children have two legs, four legs, or both, the women in the family deserve to be treated on Mother’s Day.  This rice pudding recipe is an easy way to bring something to your 55+ community clubhouse that complements the spring season with Middle Eastern flavors. The combination of rose water, vanilla, and cardamom blends nicely with the creaminess of the cold dessert. This recipe uses less sugar than everyday rice pudding, making it a healthy alternative. The addition of salted pistachios balances the sweet with a hint of saltiness. And finally, using easy-to-prepare rose petals from your garden gives the dish a flowery presentation. Easy Rose and Cardamom Rice Pudding Recipe Traditional rice pudding recipes rely on vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar for a flavorful spoonful. Our version of this creamy, cold, and refreshing potluck dessert focuses on the flavor of the Middle East. Your well-traveled neighbors will be delighted to taste your exotic offering, bringing back the memories of their travels. Your more traditional neighbors will find this dessert a delightful twist on an old favorite.  Rose water and cardamom can be found in the baking or ethnic food aisle of your grocery store. Pistachios are usually displayed in the fresh produce department. Be sure to get the shelled pistachios or be prepared to shell the nuts before adding them!  Order online if you’re uncomfortable harvesting edible rose petals from your community garden roses. If you’re harvesting your own, we recommend rinsing them well under cold water and removing the bitter white parts where the petals are the narrowest.  As for your effort, the mothers you’re celebrating will appreciate the addition of an edible bouquet. This rice pudding recipe is easy to make, economical, and best served cold. We suggest you add the rose petals and chopped pistachios as a garnish before serving. This recipe makes about 12, 5-oz servings.  Rose and Cardamom Rice Pudding with Pistachios 6 C whole milk ½ C sugar 1 C white rice rinsed and drained 1 ½ Tablespoon rose water 1 Tsp ground cardamom ½ Tsp vanilla extract Garnish 1 C Chopped, shelled, and salted pistachios ¼ C Slivered rose petals with white parts removed Instructions Bring milk and sugar to a low boil over medium heat in a medium saucepan, being careful not to scald.  While the milk mixture is heating up, rinse the rice in fresh water until the water is clear. Leave rice to soak in water until the milk mixture is ready.  When the milk mixture is at a low boil, add the drained rice and stir until boiling. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, leaving a small area to vent, and cook until creamy, about 30 minutes.  Mix rose water, cardamom, and vanilla extract in a small bowl and set aside.  When the rice is creamy, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the rose water mixture. Leave the pudding uncovered to cool before transferring it to a container, covering, and refrigerating for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.  When ready, you can serve individual portions or as a communal dish. We like using plastic 5-oz parfait cups for easy portioning and presentation. If serving communally, we suggest using a punch bowl to add to the formality of the festivities.  A Perfect Potluck Addition As you prepare for the neighborhood Mother’s Day potluck, consider bringing something easy to make that brings an exotic flavor to the other offerings. This easy rose water and cardamom rice pudding recipe will surely be popular as it combines spring flavors with easy preparation and serving. Adding rose petals and crushed pistachios transforms a simple cold pudding into a floral delight that’s easy to serve and enjoy!

Why Early Detection and Regular Screenings Are Key in Fighting Cancer

Would you rather detect a small problem early or face a bigger challenge? When it comes to cancer, the answer could be life-saving. Cancer prevention and early detection are crucial in catching the disease in its early, more treatable stages. Yet many people delay or avoid regular cancer screenings due to fear, misinformation, or a lack of understanding about the process. This blog post will help you understand the importance of early detection, explore the different types of cancer screenings available, and address common fears. By the end, you'll know to take control of your health and encourage others to do the same. Understanding Cancer Screenings Cancer screenings are medical tests performed to detect cancer before symptoms appear. These screenings are crucial because cancer often grows quietly in its early stages, causing little to no discomfort. Types of Cancer Screenings Different screenings are recommended depending on age, gender, family history, and risk factors. Here are some of the most common screenings: Mammograms - Detect breast cancer in its earliest stages. Recommended annually or biennially for women aged 40 and above. Pap Smear and HPV Tests - Detect cervical cancer and HPV infections. Recommended every 3-5 years for women aged 21-65. Colonoscopy - This procedure examines the large intestine and Screens for colorectal cancer. It is recommended every 10 years starting at age 45 or earlier if at higher risk. Low-Dose CT Scan - Used for lung cancer screenings, especially for heavy smokers or those aged 50-80 with a smoking history. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test - This test measures PSA levels in men to screen for prostate cancer. It is typically recommended for men aged 50 and above. Skin Checks - These are done by dermatologists or self-exams to detect signs of skin cancer, such as unusual moles or growths. Screenings may vary for individuals with a family history of cancer or other risk factors, so consulting your doctor is key. Benefits of Early Detection The statistics surrounding early detection and treatment outcomes speak volumes: Improved Survival Rates: According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer detected early (Stage 0 or 1) has a 99% five-year survival rate, compared to 27% when found at the metastatic stage. Less Aggressive Treatment: Early-stage cancer often allows for treatment options like surgery or localized therapy rather than systemic treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation. Lower Healthcare Costs: Diagnosing and treating cancer early is less expensive than managing advanced cancer, which often requires prolonged and intensive care. Early detection saves lives and improves the overall quality of life during and after treatment. Addressing Common Fears About Cancer Screenings Despite the importance of screenings, many people hesitate due to fear or misconceptions. Let's address some common concerns: What if the test finds something bad? It’s natural to feel anxious, but remember this: early detection dramatically increases your chances of fully recovering. Catching cancer early means you're fighting it when it’s most treatable, not after it’s had time to spread. Aren’t cancer screenings painful or uncomfortable? While some screenings may involve mild discomfort, like the pressure of a mammogram or the preparation for a colonoscopy, the benefits far outweigh these temporary sensations. Think of it as investing a moment of discomfort for a lifetime of better health. Screenings are too expensive. Many health insurance plans cover preventive screenings at no additional cost. Numerous community health programs also provide free or low-cost options to make screenings affordable and accessible. I feel fine. Do I even need a screening? Early-stage cancer rarely presents symptoms, which is why routine screenings are critical. Feeling fine doesn’t guarantee you’re in the clear. Screenings can catch what you can’t see or feel. Take Control of Your Health Cancer doesn’t wait, and neither should you. Routine cancer screenings are one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prioritize your health. Here’s how you can get started today: Talk to Your Doctor: Discuss your personal risk factors and get recommendations tailored to your needs. Schedule a Screening: Don’t put off making that first appointment. Your health is worth it. Share the Knowledge: Encourage friends and family to schedule their screenings too. Together, we can create a healthier community. It’s never too early to prioritize prevention. Take charge of your well-being, and empower others to do the same.

The Top 10 Features to Look for in a 55+ Community

Choosing the right 55+ community is more than just a home — it’s about finding a lifestyle that supports your needs, passions, and peace of mind. With so many active adult communities available, it can be overwhelming to know what truly matters. Whether planning your retirement or looking to downsize, here are the top 10 features to look for in a 55+ community to ensure your next chapter is enjoyable and rewarding. 1. Maintenance-Free Living One of the biggest perks of 55+ communities is low-maintenance living. Look for communities that offer services like: Lawn care Exterior home maintenance Snow removal Trash and recycling pickup This saves time and effort and provides financial predictability and peace of mind—no more unexpected repair bills. 2. Safety and Security Security is a top priority for many older adults. Consider communities that offer: Gated entrances or controlled access On-site security staff Emergency call systems in homes Well-lit walkways and community areas These features are designed to provide peace of mind, whether at home or away. Explore these communities offering gated access and on-site security for enhanced safety. Trilogy at Verde River by Shea Homes - Rio Verde, AZ Trilogy at the Polo Club by Shea Homes - Indio, CA Lake Griffin Harbor - Leesburg, FL Osprey Bay - Fort Myers, FL Oak Hill Reserve by Kolter Homes - Newnan, GA 3. Healthcare Access As we age, proximity to healthcare becomes more important. Top 55+ communities often include or are located near: On-site clinics or wellness centers Partnerships with local hospitals Nearby pharmacies and specialists Health screenings and preventative care programs Bonus points if the community has fitness and wellness programs that promote long-term health. 4. Social Opportunities Staying socially active is crucial for mental and emotional well-being. Look for communities that offer: Clubs (book clubs, travel groups, gardening, etc.) Social events and happy hours Hobby groups (art, crafts, photography) Group excursions and day trips A connected community helps you build friendships and enjoy a vibrant lifestyle. 5. Fitness and Recreation Amenities Top-tier 55+ communities encourage an active lifestyle with amenities like: Walking and biking trails Swimming pools (indoor and outdoor) Fitness centers and personal training Tennis, pickleball, or golf courses Yoga and group fitness classes Physical activity has countless health benefits and helps you feel energized and independent. 6. On-Site Dining or Nearby Restaurants Access to food options—casual, gourmet, or grab-and-go—adds major convenience. Many communities now feature: Clubhouse dining Cafés or bistros on-site Weekly farmers’ markets Proximity to quality restaurants and grocery stores It’s not just about nourishment—it’s also about gathering, socializing, and enjoying life. 7. Transportation Services Not everyone wants (or needs) to drive as they get older. Look for communities that offer: Shuttle services to shopping centers and medical appointments Group transportation for events or excursions Walkable layouts with access to nearby essentials Reliable transportation options add freedom and convenience. 8. Pet-Friendly Policies If your furry friend is coming with you, it’s essential to check for: Pet-friendly housing options On-site dog parks or walking paths Clear policies for pets (number, size, breed restrictions) More 55+ communities are welcoming pets, recognizing that they’re an important part of the family. Here’s a look at some of the top pet-friendly communities. Sevilla Sol - Peoria, AZ Hawthorne at Leesburg - Leesburg, FL Cresswind Palm Beach at Westlake - Westlake, FL Shoreline Palms - Largo, FL Henning Estates by Rock Creek Homes - Huntley, IL Pine Crest Estates - Chesterfield, MI Noble on the Lake - Brighton, MI Sagebrush - Reno, NV Sandhill Valley - Las Vegas, NV Brookside - Freedom Series by DR Horton - Troutman, NC The Gentry at Handsmill on Lake Wylie by Kolter Homes - York, SC 9. Lifestyle Programming Engagement goes beyond activities—it’s about personal growth, education, and fulfillment. Great communities offer: Lifelong learning classes Volunteer opportunities Cooking, tech, or language workshops Cultural events and guest speakers These programs help residents stay mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled. 10. Affordable and Transparent Fees Understanding the cost structure is essential. Look for: Clear HOA (Homeowners Association) fee breakdowns What’s included (maintenance, amenities, services) Property tax rates and utility costs Optional packages (club memberships, meal plans, etc.) Make sure the financial commitment aligns with your retirement goals and budget. Conclusion: Your Next Chapter Starts with the Right Community Choosing a 55+ community is more than just picking a place to live — it’s selecting one that supports how you want to live. Whether you prioritize social engagement, wellness, financial simplicity, or convenience, the right features will make your daily life more enjoyable, enriching, and stress-free. Considering these top 10 features, you can find a community that meets your needs and enhances your lifestyle. Retirement should be about freedom, connection, and comfort; the right community helps make that possible.

Bring Your Best Carrot Dish To The Easter Potluck 

Surprise! These carrot muffins make a perfect potluck offering. Carrots are a staple in every produce drawer. This budget-friendly vegetable can enhance your contribution to the community clubhouse potluck this Easter. Roasting the carrots caramelizes their natural sugars, and the maple syrup complements the spice in the roasting sauce. Another advantage of roasting the carrots is that the process can be done in advance, allowing the pureed mixture to meld the flavors. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Carrot Cake With A Twist Traditional carrot cake recipes call for grated carrots and layers of cream cheese frosting. This muffin recipe features carrots slowly roasted with maple syrup and a delicate blend of spices, including a hint of anise that adds an Italian twist to the muffins. Swirling cream cheese into the batter and baking it together simplifies serving these treats while preserving the essence of traditional carrot cake. This recipe is healthy, fresh, and Easter Bunny approved! Your active older adult neighbors will commend your ingenuity at your 55+ community’s Easter potluck. Spiced Carrot-Maple Muffins with Cream Cheese Swirl Roasted Carrots  1 lb of carrots, washed and peeled 3 Tbsp cooking oil 3 Tbsp maple syrup 1 Tsp ground cinnamon ½ Tsp whole anise seed ¼ Tsp ground ginger ¼ Tsp ground cardamon ⅛ Tsp ground nutmeg Muffin Batter  1 1/2 C all-purpose flour ½ C sugar 1 Tsp baking soda ½ Tsp baking powder ½ C walnut pieces (optional) ⅓ C cooking oil 2 Eggs 1 Tsp Vanilla extract Cream Cheese Swirl  1 8-oz cream cheese block ½ C powdered sugar 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract   INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350°F Mix the oil, syrup, anise seed, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg in a small bowl, then set aside. Place the carrots in a shallow baking dish and gently toss them with the oil mixture. Roast for 55 minutes or until they are soft. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Once cool, puree the carrots with a hand mixer until smooth, then set aside. Blend flour, sugar, baking soda, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl. In a small mixing bowl, combine oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Then, add the wet mixture and carrot puree to the dry ingredients and set aside. In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter, then add a spoonful of cream cheese mixture and gently stir with a toothpick. If needed, add more batter. Place in oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. A Perfect Potluck Addition As you prepare for the neighborhood Easter potluck, consider bringing something easy to make that complements the other offerings. This roasted carrot muffin recipe is sure to be a hit—it's simple to prepare and delicious to eat. Adding a cream cheese swirl transforms a slice of carrot cake into a delightful finger food that’s easy to serve and enjoy!

Tips for Seniors to Get Ready for Tax Season: A Guide for 2025 and Beyond

Tax season can feel daunting, but with some preparation, seniors can make filing more manageable and less stressful. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you get organized and take advantage of benefits tailored for active older adults in 2025. Gather Your Documents Early Start by collecting all the paperwork you’ll need. Most income and investment documents start arriving in your mailbox in January. For seniors, key documents include: Social Security and Pension Income: Grab your SSA-1099 (Social Security) and 1099-R (pensions) showing yearly totals. Investment Income: Collect 1099-DIV (dividends), 1099-INT (interest), or 1099-B (capital gains) if you have stocks, bonds, or other investments. Medical Expenses: Save receipts, Medicare statements, and insurance records for deductible costs like doctor visits or prescriptions. Retirement Withdrawals: Get your 1099-R for any IRA or 401(k) distributions. Having these ready avoids last-minute scrambles. Claim Senior Tax Benefits Seniors qualify for perks that can lower their taxes. Here’s what you need to know: More significant Standard Deduction: You get an extra deduction if you’re 65+ by December 31, 2025. Credit for the Elderly or Disabled: If you’re 65+ (or disabled) and have a low income, this credit could cut your tax bill. Check IRS Schedule R for eligibility. Medical Deductions: Deduct medical expenses over 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). For example, if your AGI is $40,000, anything above $3,000 is deductible—track every cost! HSA Contribution Limits (Age 55+): High-deductible health plans (HDHP) allow for catch-up contributions to a Health Savings Account (HSA) starting at age 55. The contributions are tax-deductible and grow tax-free, and withdrawals for medical expenses are tax-free. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): Seniors over 75 can donate directly from an IRA to a charity, indirectly lowering taxable income for seniors and counting toward their Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) without being taxed as income. Social Security Tax Considerations: Seniors over 55 who plan to wait until 65 or older to start collecting their Social Security benefits must plan their income strategically to keep more benefits tax-free. Ask a tax pro about state-specific breaks, especially if you’re in a 55+ community. Think About a Tax Professional Hiring a tax expert specializing in seniors aged 55+ may be worth the investment as your financial situation becomes more complex. Building a relationship with a professional helps you through this tax season and plan for future tax seasons. Some benefits include reduced errors, saving time, efficiently planning for future taxes by timing withdrawals and spotting scams. Other benefits include their knowledge of optimizing medical expense deductions, maximizing age-specific tax breaks, and understanding retirement income and state-specific tax laws. Many offer senior discounts or know-how for 55+ community residents. Some communities even host tax prep workshops—check with yours! Organize Your Records Sort your papers before filing. Use folders (physical or digital) for: Medical bills Income forms Donation receipts: A transparent system helps you spot every deduction and credit you deserve. Know Your State’s Tax Rules State income and property tax laws differ. States like Colorado, Michigan, and West Virginia have income tax breaks for seniors 55+. Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, New Mexico, South Carolina, and Utah offer income tax breaks once you’re 65 or older. There is no state income tax for residents of all ages in Florida, Nevada, Texas, and Washington. State property tax breaks vary depending on the state and the county level.  A local tax pro can confirm. File Early Beat the April 15, 2025, deadline. Filing early: Speeds up refunds: By filing as soon as all your tax documents are accounted for, you can receive your refund before the usual expected month of May. Avoids late penalties if you owe: Sometimes, due to calculation errors, you may owe taxes. Filing before April 15th gives you time to pay the difference with no interest penalties. It also gives you time to set up an IRS payment plan and caps penalties for late payments. Relieves stress: Last-minute filing increases stress, possibly leading to mistakes that cost you money. The additional stress can negatively affect your health and your spring plans. Chat with 55+ neighbors—many communities offer filing resources or group workshops. Handle Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) If you’re 73+ (or 75 if born after 1960, per SECURE 2.0), you must take RMDs from traditional IRAs or 401(k)s. These are taxable, so: Track withdrawals (reported on 1099-R) Plan for the tax hit. A tax pro can ensure accurate reporting. Look Into Tax-Free Investments Some investments benefit seniors by keeping their Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) low. These investments include municipal and U.S. savings bonds—perfect for cutting taxable income. Not sure how they work? Ask a financial advisor for advice tailored to your situation. Watch for Scams Scammers target seniors during tax season. The IRS won’t call or email demanding payment—hang up or delete if you get these. Report fraud to the IRS at irs.gov or your state tax office. Review Your Estate Plan Tax prep is a good time to check your estate. The advantages include having a current financial snapshot of your income and investments, highlighting tax gaps, and what retirement account decisions you need to make. Increased medical expenses signal an opportunity to review your Advance Healthcare Directive and any details of your estate inheritance. Have you downsized or moved into a 55+ community? An estate attorney can ensure your assets pass on tax efficiently. Final Thoughts Tax season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You'll breeze through filing by starting early, claiming senior benefits, and staying organized. Tap into local resources—community workshops can make tax filing even more manageable. With these steps, you’re set for a smooth 2025 tax season and prepared for your future.

Spring Gardening Tips for Seniors: A Guide to a Blooming Season

Spring is here; there’s no better time to dust off your gardening gloves and breathe new life into your outdoor space. For seniors in active adult communities, gardening isn’t just a hobby—it’s a chance to stay active, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasures of watching something grow. This spring, embrace the social aspects of gardening, and you and your neighbors will benefit from an abundant harvest of fresh produce and cherished friendships. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, new to the climate, or just cultivating your green thumb, these practical, senior-friendly tips will help you grow your garden and friendships. Community Gardens   The benefit of living in an age-restricted community is that the Home Owners Association (HOA) maintains much of the community’s landscaping. Dedicated plots for the exclusive use of the residents and small yards help keep gardens easy to manage throughout the year. Homeowner-led garden clubs usually belong to state garden clubs, where members share resources and knowledge. Watch the community newsletter for any garden club updates as the days grow longer and flower buds appear. Everything’s better with friends, right? Invite a neighbor to join you in the garden for fresh air and conversation. Afterward, you can continue the camaraderie at the community clubhouse restaurant for a celebratory cocktail and light meal. Treat Yourself to the Right Tools Active older adults realize there are limits to how their body responds to gardening tasks. Having the correct tools makes gardening easier on hardworking hands and backs. Starting with the correct gardening wagon can help organize your tools and save your back. When shopping for a gardening wagon, look for features such as a low center of gravity and sturdy wheels. An adjustable handle and removable sides make transporting soil and plants more manageable. Curved and padded handles on hand trowels and spring-assisted ratchets on pruners ease the strain on wrists and elbows. Telescopic handles on rakes and hoes allow access to hard-to-reach weed patches and leaf piles without overtaxing your back. Healthy Habits Our mature bodies know the benefit of self-care. Before starting in the garden, it’s wise to stretch in a yoga class at the Clubhouse. Sunscreen is essential for spring outdoor activities, including gardening. It is also important when the weather is overcast, or you spend most of your time in the greenhouse. As the days get longer, there’s a risk of dehydration and heatstroke. It’s important to keep a cool, soothing drink nearby. Water is the easiest way to stay hydrated. You may also consume sweet tea or homemade lemonade when working with your neighbors. Be sure to rest in the shade when you’re feeling overheated. An established community garden will plant trees to offer people respite from the sun. If your community is new, now is a good time to choose a species of tree that is acclimated to the environment and will continue to thrive for years. Wear Proper Clothing Before heading out to the garden, it’s essential to make sure you’re wearing the best uniform for the task. Keeping your body safe and comfortable from head to toe makes your time in the garden more enjoyable. The proper hat keeps your head safe from sunburn. Look for a hat with a wide brim and a mesh underlayer for ventilation. Some gardening clubs sell hats with the club’s logo that help identify neighbors as members. Dressing in layers regulates body temperature and protects skin from sun damage, insect bites, and heat rash. A breathable undershirt layered under a long-sleeved top protects your upper body. Long pants keep the bottom half of your body safe. Choose a comfortable fit with a flexible waistband. Some pants can be converted to shorts for the hottest spring day. Sturdy shoes that repel water and are comfortable to walk in are required for gardening with your neighbors. Closed-toe shoes are also crucial to keep your feet safe from accidents. Your shoes can be made of formed rubber, leather, or canvas. To complete your gardening ensemble, consider adding sunglasses to protect your eyes from soil, leaves, and insects that may fly into your face. Quality gloves protect your hands from thorns, soil, bug bites, and sun damage. A tool belt or gardening apron helps hold your tools and personal items so you don’t forget them after a long day. Savor the Moment Sharing gardening time with your friends and neighbors makes the task easier. As a group, you will learn new techniques, experiment with exotic produce and ornamentals, and share in the bounty of the harvest. Take time to appreciate your garden's sights, sounds, and smells. Your gardening club is the perfect place for resource books that help identify the plants and animals that thrive in your area. As a group you can use your combined talents to plan a garden that pleases the eye. Make sure you include annuals that bring summer scents to your neighborhood. Of course, sharing a nutritious harvest at a potluck at the clubhouse is the finest of gardening goals. Why Gardening is Perfect for Seniors Gardening is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to stay active, reduce stress, and find joy in the simple things. It’s a gentle exercise that keeps you moving, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching something you planted grow and thrive. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy the beauty of spring and stay connected with your community. Let’s Grow Together at Active Adult Living For more information about active adult communities that feature community gardens, visit Active Adult Living and explore the options for your dream retirement. 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